Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

Following the invitation in the concept note (S/2013/447) prepared by the presidency, I should like to reiterate that Colombia deems essential measures aimed at prevention, protection and the guarantee of non-repetition for victims in situations of armed conflict. My Government believes that the rights of victims must be guaranteed and reflected in assistance, attention and reparation measures.

The full and unimpeded access of humanitarian assistance continues to be a sine qua non for the relief of affected populations, including in particular the most vulnerable groups, such as women and children. In that regard, we unequivocally condemn sexual and gender-based violence, including the use of sexual violence as a military tactic.

First, ending impunity for violations of human rights and international humanitarian law is the first step towards establishing the rule of law in the post- conflict peacebuilding process. In particular, violence and crimes against women and children should not go unpunished.

While welcoming the Council's continued dialogue and consultations with regional organizations, as well as joint actions on the ground, we would encourage an enhanced focus on issues of justice and accountability; tackling impunity for crimes against civilian populations, including sexual violence in conflict; and the effective implementation of Security Council resolutions on women and peace and security, and children and armed conflict.

I would like to add that all of our assistance will be informed by a gender perspective. We will provide additional resources for programmes to address sexual and gender-based violence, as well as assistance for basic health services for vulnerable women and children through networks of health centres.

In conclusion, I would like to refer to the fact that, just a month ago, we met here in the Chamber to adopt resolution 2106 (2013), on sexual violence against women and children in armed conflict (see S/PV.6984). In line with resolution 2098 (2013), that meeting, which was held under the presidency of the United Kingdom, was fundamental.

We also underscore the specific risks faced by women journalists, including sexual and gender-­ based violence. A gender-­sensitive approach is needed when considering measures to address the safety of journalists.

Attacks on journalists also take the forms of abduction, hostage-taking, harassment, intimidation and illegal arrest. Women journalists are increasingly becoming victims of sexual harassment and rape.

This debate is a reminder of why the Security Council's work is so important. The Secretary- General's report (S/2013/245) documents hideous violations — thousands of children killed and maimed by explosive weapons and continuous shelling, the systematic rape and torture of girls and boys and the forcible use of children as human shields.

Thirdly, concerning sexual violence against children, how is it possible that the crimes committed by those terrorist armed groups, including rape and sexual violence, the murder of children, and acts of violence against girls and women throughout Syria were not mentioned in the report? How could the taking of girls and women as spoils of war and sex slaves not be mentioned?